The Oyo State Government has ordered a temporary curfew across 10 local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park, in what authorities describe as a proactive measure to strengthen security and support ongoing efforts to tackle criminal activities in the area.

The restriction, announced on Tuesday by Governor Seyi Makinde through a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, will take effect from Wednesday, June 24, 2026. According to the directive, residents in the affected councils will be required to observe a 16-hour curfew running daily from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. for an initial period of 48 hours.

The decision follows growing security concerns around communities adjoining the Old Oyo National Park, an area that has attracted increased attention in recent weeks following reports of criminal activities. Authorities believe tighter movement restrictions could assist security agencies in monitoring the area and carrying out operations more effectively.

The curfew comes weeks after the abduction of 39 students and seven teachers from communities in Oriire Local Government Area. Reports indicate that the victims are suspected to be held within or around locations linked to the forested environment surrounding the national park, although security operations remain ongoing.

Affected local government areas include Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo and Atiba. Residents have been advised to comply fully with the directive while security agencies intensify surveillance and enforcement measures across the affected corridors.

Government officials say the temporary restrictions are aimed at protecting lives and restoring confidence in vulnerable communities. The latest move underscores growing efforts by state authorities to limit the operational space of criminal groups and improve safety for residents living around strategic forest and border areas.